Only due to the miracle of the turf at the A-Diamond, the Twins and the Cubs were able to get in a full 7 innings last night. Many thanks to John Reel for getting the game switched from the C-Diamond, to the A-Diamond, or this game would have been added to the growing list of rain outs. Many thanks, John!
Mike Girard, Scott Ross, and Ralph Caputo combined on a two hit shut out, for the Cubs. Only Glenn Murray (one out bloop single in the 2nd) and Lee Madsen (lead off single in the 5th) managed hits for the Twins. Girard threw the first 5 innings, giving up two singles and no walks, while striking out 3. Scott Ross pitched himself into and out of a two-out jam in the 6th, walking two and having the other runner reach on an error. Ralph Caputo pitched a perfect 7th, getting a fly ball, a grounder, and the final out on a strike out. The Cubs defense was solid all night, making all of the plays, and even had a few "above and beyond" plays. Paul Miles ' running catch in deep right field for the second out of the game comes to mind, right off the bat, but there were others.
Meanwhile, the Cubs bats were hot right from the start. Scott Ross and Ron Lochner led the way, with 3 hits each. Dave Mitchell and PJ Martone had two hits, and drove in two runs each. Mike Girard added a triple and 4 RBI's. Rookie Andy Hoyle, Paul Miles, Jerry Rosen, and Jim McQuade all added singles to the cause. This all added up to a 9-0 opening game win for the Cubs, and sets the Cubs up well for their second game: the first meeting of the year against the defending champion, Giants. Game is Tuesday night, at the C-Diamond, at 5:45 pm. Can't wait! These games are always a blast to be a part of!
-- Edited by mgirard11 on Friday 3rd of May 2019 11:15:08 AM
